It takes time to find the perfect business school for you. There are plenty of programs out there—and even more recommendations which may or may not be helpful. As you examine business programs, there are three things you should keep in mind.
1. Proper Accreditation
A school’s accreditation may not at the top of on your business school checklist, but it certainly ought to be. If you’re looking at a for-profit college, pay particular attention to whether the school is accredited and by whom. What kind of problems can you encounter if you enroll in a school with questionable (or no) accreditation? Your business program could fail to meet national standards of quality, resulting in a worthless degree. If you end up transferring to another business school, your credits may not be accepted at the other institution. The last thing you want is wasted tuition or student loans you regret. Colleges of business aside, it’s important for a university to be accredited. When it comes to business schools, look for approval from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
2. Cooperative Career Services Program
Networking is a significant aspect of the general college experience, but it’s among the primary benefits of attending business school. Making connections with peers and influential professors can help further your career, but a supportive career services program is just as much of an asset. There are is a plethora of internship opportunities for business students and you may be lost on where to begin looking. A good internship coordinator assists you with resume building, mock interviews, and collaborates with businesses to create internships or a cooperative experience program. Some universities have a thorough alumni network which may come in handy when you’re on the job hunt.
3. Depth of Program
You might feel pressured to apply to the most prestigious school. While there is some truth to the power of an academic pedigree, there’s more to a business school than the name. You don’t have to essentially pay for a “brand” in order to have a solid education. During your school search, pay attention to the diversity of a school’s business program. You’d be surprised at how interdisciplinary a business degree can be! Some schools offer BBA’s or other Business degrees with varied concentrations, such as Sports Management or Technological Entrepreneurship. Regardless of your emphasis, a program has a strong foundation which prepares you for practically all aspects of the business world.
